Crisp Living Tips in Honor of National Nutrition Month

In the United States, heart disease claims the lives of 1 in 4 Americans, diabetes diagnoses affect approximately 1.4 million individuals annually, and cancer stands as the second leading cause of death. Behind these alarming statistics lie contributing factors such as increased portion sizes, sedentary lifestyles, behavioral issues, limited resources, and environmental pollution. These elements collectively contribute to the rise in overweight and obese individuals, paving the way for heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. The question arises: What can be done, and where do we begin?

March marks National Nutrition Month, an initiative by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics aimed at raising awareness about the crucial role of nutrition. This month serves as a platform to educate individuals on the significance of making healthy food and drink choices, cultivating improved eating habits, and integrating more physical activity into daily life to prevent the onset of chronic diseases.

Throughout March, numerous organizations engage in wellness tips, cooking demonstrations, educational resources, and other events focused on nutrition and wellness. Crisp Regional Hospital joins this movement by offering 10 practical living tips to help you keep your nutrition in check:

1. Embrace Colorful Plates:

• Make half of your plate fruits and vegetables. These vibrant additions bring color, fiber, flavor, vitamins, and minerals to your meals. Experiment with fresh, frozen, and canned options.

2. Portion Control:

• Watch your portion sizes by using measuring cups to align with recommended servings. Understanding your portion sizes is a fundamental step toward healthier eating habits.

3. Smart Snacking:

• Prepare healthy snacks that sustain energy levels between meals. Opt for snacks that combine two or more food groups, such as peanut butter with apple or raw vegetables with cottage cheese.

4. Home Cooking Wisdom:

• Take control of your health by preparing food at home. Learning basic skills, like dicing an onion or cooking dried beans, empowers you to make healthier choices in your kitchen.

5. Plant-Powered Meals:

• Introduce more plant-based meals into your diet. Vegetables, beans, whole grains, and lentils can be cost-effective substitutes for meat and contribute to better overall health. Start with one meatless meal per week.

6. Hydration Habits:

• Prioritize hydration for your body and skin. Ensure proper hydration by monitoring the color of your urine—light to clear indicates adequate hydration.

7. Active Lifestyle:

• Incorporate physical activity into your routine. Begin with 10 minutes at a time and work your way up to 2 hours and 30 minutes per week for adults. Consider activities like a post-dinner walk or a casual game of catch.

8. Culinary Exploration:

• Experiment with new foods and flavors to avoid culinary monotony. Trying different grains, vegetables, or fruits adds variety, enhancing both nutrition and eating pleasure.

9. Label Literacy:

• Familiarize yourself with food labels to make informed choices while shopping. Reading the nutrition facts label contributes to smarter eating and drinking habits.

10. Gradual Goal Setting:

• Avoid overwhelming yourself with numerous goals simultaneously. Start with achievable, SMART goals—specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and time-oriented. Take it one day and one meal at a time on your journey to better health. If you seek additional guidance, consider consulting a Registered Dietitian in your area.

National Nutrition Month serves as a call to action, encouraging individuals to embark on a journey of mindful nutrition and well-being. By adopting these Crisp Living tips, you take a proactive step toward managing your health and contributing to the overall well-being of your community.